Aman Jinagal, a pistol shooter from Goria village in Jhajjar district, Haryana, has achieved remarkable success in shooting despite severe physical disabilities. Born in 2003 with cataract and glaucoma, he underwent four eye surgeries by age two, lost one eye, and is deaf and mute. Yet he has won a bronze medal in the state championship, become a national player, and qualified for the selection trials of the International Deaflympics.
Early Life and Medical Challenges
Aman was born with cataract and glaucoma in both eyes. By the time he was two, he had already undergone four eye surgeries. After three surgeries, one eye had to be removed to protect the other. At age three, it was discovered that he could not hear or speak. Despite these challenges, his father Karanpal, a Border Security Force (BSF) officer, and mother Hemlata did not lose hope and ensured his well-being and education.
Discovery of Shooting Talent
The turning point came when Aman was 19. His parents took him and his younger sister Priya to a shooting academy in Rewari. Hemlata said, “The achievements of Haryana’s players in the Olympics and other prestigious international sporting events inspired us. My daughter Priya wanted to get trained in shooting. We also took Aman along and got him admitted to the academy.” After a few days of training, Aman developed a keen interest in shooting and has been practicing with utmost dedication since then.
Remarkable Achievements
Coach Raman Rao noted, “He seems to have transcended his physical limitations and has won 15 medals despite not having one eye and very limited vision in the other.” Aman’s achievements include a bronze medal in the state championship, becoming a national player, and qualifying for the selection trials of the International Deaflympics. Rao emphasized that Aman’s devotion and dedication for the sport are matchless despite his physical disabilities.
Family Support and Inspiration
Hemlata credited her husband Karanpal for being a pillar of strength. “There was social and family pressure on us to have another son as Aman was physically challenged, but my husband never forced me to have another son. We are satisfied with what we have got,” she said. She added, “We should always accept the Will of the Almighty. Aman has been quite active and knowledgeable ever since he was very small despite his limitations. I will always stand by him and hope that he makes his mark in life.”
Impact and Future Goals
Aman’s story is a powerful example of overcoming obstacles. As Booker T. Washington said, “Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome.” Aman now aims to represent India at the Deaflympics and continue inspiring others with his resilience and determination.
